This Gurgaon residence by Untitled Design Consultants is a multi-leveled wonder of modern, sustainable construction that brilliantly includes age-old design techniques in its scheme.
This 4-level house works a clever interplay of volumes set around a water-body, the focal point of the central atrium. The client’s brief asked for an abode that coupled this multi-leveled interplay with natural elements. This has been gloriously achieved by the team from New Delhi-based firm, Untitled Design Consultants, with the client’s prized and unique art collection providing the proverbial icing on the designer cake.
A series of airy, transparent interiors are belied by the building’s exterior. The bridges are unusual but effective domestic features that link the 2 sections of the house. The water body was created in a space demarcated as a shaft, and a retractable roof was provided for air-circulation, light, and natural cooling for all 3 floors.
A micro-concrete wall with a water spout was textured using a common wide-toothed comb. This addition was inspired by a practice that dates back to our heritage palaces, where water was the only source of creating a cooling ambience. Indian white Makrana marble, a variety of hand-chiseled limestone, and granite have been used in various sections of the house. The revival of the traditional terrazzo was painstakingly executed by artisans from Gujarat in black-and-white cement without using any partition strips for the entire 16’x14’ space. Grey micro-concrete was liberally used for the construction.
A hanging onyx wall, Ovencol Veneer-paneling and the use of reclaimed wood creates a vibrant colour palette in the interiors. The entire house is equipped with double-glazed aluminum to reduce the carbon footprint. “High-performance aluminum windows are able to meet or exceed energy efficiency standards. Aluminum windows and doors can easily achieve improvements in heat gain and heat loss through windows by the tune of 60%, rivalling more expensive timber and uPVC equivalents,” states the team. The terrace has a lush garden and a water feature to further reduce heat in the rooms that are directly underneath and face the harsh southern sun.
The brilliant art collection of the owners was further expanded with a variety of local pieces of art and craft. A Gond art specimen has been used for the headboard panel in the son’s room, while beautiful Rajasthani Pichwai adorns the puja room walls, along with Pietra dura, and Sanjhi art from Mathura.
A VRV system has been installed for the air-conditioning needs of the house, thereby making the choice more energy-efficient. All the glazing is double-layered which further complements the air-conditioning. The house is lit by an array of LED lights.
This uber luxurious home in Gurgaon is a peaceful sanctuary in the midst of Gurgaon’s dust and bustle. Its dedication to energy efficiency adds to its impeccable charm.
